In grammar, the concept of a “complement” plays a vital role in adding depth and meaning to sentences. Complements serve as essential sentence elements that complete the thought and provide important information. In this blog post, we will explore the world of complements, understanding what they are, how they function, and their various types.

Complement Definition

In grammar, a complement is a word or phrase that completes the meaning of a predicate. It provides additional information about the subject or object of the sentence, making it a crucial component in conveying a clear and concise message.

A complement is a grammatical element that follows a verb, adjective, or preposition and provides additional information to complete the meaning of a sentence. It is crucial for conveying the full message, as it describes the subject or object more thoroughly. Complements can take various forms and serve different functions, making them a versatile and indispensable part of the English language.

Types of Complement in Grammar

There are several types of complements in grammar, each serving a specific function:

1. Subject Complements

Subject complements follow linking verbs, which are verbs that do not express action but rather connect the subject and the complement. They provide a description or identification of the subject.

• Linking Verbs: is, am, are, was, were, be, been, seem, appear, remain, become, look, feel, taste, smell, etc.

Examples of Subject Complements:

• The cat is hungry.
• She became a doctor.
• The painting looks old.

2. Object Complements

Object complements follow direct objects, providing additional information about the object of the verb. They can rename, describe, or state what the object has become.

Examples of Object Complements:

• The vote made John’s position untenable.
• The teacher painted the wall blue.

3. Adverbial Complements

Adverbial complement is an adverb or adverbial phrase that completes the meaning of a verb. It is essential for the sentence to make sense, and if it is removed, the sentence will either be ungrammatical or have a different meaning. Adverbial complements are often used with verbs of motion, such as “put,” “place,” “set,” and “lay.”

Examples of adverbial complements:

• She put the book on the table.
• He placed the vase on the shelf.

Distinguishing Complements from Modifiers

Complements differ from modifiers in that they are essential for the complete meaning of the sentence, while modifiers are optional and provide additional details or descriptions.

Examples:

• The hungry cat is waiting for dinner. (The modifier “hungry” is not essential for the meaning of the sentence.)
• The cat is hungry. (The complement “hungry” is essential for the meaning of the sentence.)

Function and Importance of Complements

Complements play a vital role in English grammar by providing essential information that completes the meaning of sentences and clarifies the relationship between the subject, verb, and object. They help us convey our thoughts and ideas more effectively and accurately.

Complements are vital for adding precision and clarity to sentences. They help convey not only the action but also the details surrounding it. Complements offer a more comprehensive understanding of what, whom, or where the action is directed. Without complements, sentences would often lack crucial information and could be ambiguous.

To sum up!

Whether you’re a budding writer, a language enthusiast, or simply someone curious about the intricacies of grammar, understanding the concept of complements is essential for mastering the English language. By recognizing and using complements correctly, you can enhance your writing skills, improve your communication, and gain a deeper appreciation for the richness and complexity of English grammar.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a complement in grammar?

A complement is a grammatical element in a sentence that provides additional information to complete its meaning. It typically follows a verb, adjective, or preposition and can be various types, such as direct objects, subject complements, or adverbial complements.

2. What is the purpose of a complement in a sentence?

The purpose of a complement is to provide essential information that adds depth and clarity to the sentence. It helps complete the thought and answer questions like “what?” or “whom?” in relation to the verb or provide more details about the subject, object, or action.

3. What are the different types of complements in grammar?

There are several types of complements, including direct objects, indirect objects, subject complements, object complements, and adverbial complements. Each type serves a specific function in providing information or completing the sentence.

4. What is a direct object complement?

A direct object complement is a noun or pronoun that directly receives the action of the verb and tells us “what?” or “whom?” in relation to the verb. It is a crucial part of the sentence’s meaning.

5. How does an indirect object complement differ from a direct object complement?

An indirect object complement indicates to whom or for whom the action of the verb is performed, while a direct object complement tells us “what?” or “whom?” is directly affected by the action.

6. What is a subject complement, and when is it used in a sentence?

A subject complement follows a linking verb and describes or renames the subject. It can be an adjective (predicate adjective) or a noun (predicate nominative), providing more information about the subject.

7. Can you provide an example of an adverbial complement in a sentence?

Certainly! An adverbial complement often provides information about when, where, how, or to what extent an action occurs. For example, in “She sang the song beautifully,” “beautifully” is the adverbial complement describing how the action (singing) was performed.

8. Why are complements important in grammar?

Complements are crucial for making sentences complete and clear. They add depth and context to the information being conveyed, allowing for a more precise and meaningful expression of ideas.

9. Are there any exceptions or special cases when it comes to complements in grammar?

While there are general rules for complements, the type and placement of complements can vary based on the structure and syntax of a sentence. It’s essential to understand how complements function in different contexts.

10. How can I identify complements in sentences when reading or writing?

To identify complements, look for elements that complete the meaning of the sentence. They often provide information about the action, subject, or object, and they follow verbs, adjectives, or prepositions.

These FAQs should help you gain a better understanding of what complements are in grammar and how they function in sentences.

Read a a full list of grammar topics for better understanding of English grammar.